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Cyber-security research at RUSI aims to understand and explore cyber-crime and attacks at both national and international levels, anticipate the implications for UK defence and security, and assess overlaps with organised crime, terrorism and resilience.

RUSI has recently launched a programme of research and events dedicated to global cyber security challenges. We work with selected partners to produce cutting-edge research into cyber security. RUSI is a global hub for the exchange of strategic ideas within the cyber community.

RUSI’s cyber security research agenda focuses on five thematic areas: the cyber threat landscape; improving defence and resilience; the role of legislation and regulation; online education, awareness and behaviour; and the UK cyber ecosystem

Whilst the digital age provides many opportunities, it is also widely recognised that this brings risk. As societies are ever more dependent on internet-connected technologies, they become more vulnerable to those who are ready to exploit networks and data for financial gain or political motives. There are clearly many opportunities to strengthen cyber security, by enhancing the education and awareness of users, improving risk management strategies, developing a better understanding of the threat landscape, and exploring the benefits of emerging technology. Our research will focus on these challenges at both national and organisational level.

We recognise that these strategic cyber security challenges are cross-cutting issues. The RUSI cyber programme sits within RUSI’s National Security and Resilience studies group (NSR), but collaborates closely with RUSI’s other core research teams, including the Centre for Financial Crime and Security Studies (CFCS), the International Security Studies team, Military Sciences, and Proliferation and Nuclear Policy.

The coordinated international action targeting hostile Russian cyber operations represents a real determination by Western governments not to leave cyber an uncontested space for Russia. But the question remains as to what steps governments can take that will actually deter Russia from continuing their hostile cyber operations.

Tom Keatinge, Director, Centre for Financial Crime and Security Studies at RUSI, on the need for a global financial crime strategy to counter cybercriminals following a major ransomware attack on 12 May.

The rapid rise of Bitcoin has prompted extensive discussion about the nexus between virtual currencies and financial crime. This paper examines the financial crime risks involving virtual currencies, the challenges that come with attempting to address those risks, and considers the implications for key stakeholders.

RUSI’s Centre for Financial Crime and Security Studies will host the first meeting of the FinTech and Fincrime Exchange (FFE), a new initiative to promote an increased understanding of financial crime by the FinTech industry.

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The coordinated international action targeting hostile Russian cyber operations represents a real determination by Western governments not to leave cyber an uncontested space for Russia. But the question remains as to what steps governments can take that will actually deter Russia from continuing their hostile cyber operations.

The UK’s long-awaited National Cyber Security Strategy (NCSS) 2016 to 2021 was released this month after a delay due to Britain’s EU referendum and change in government. What does it say and what does it leave unanswered?

Officials from the US and China put on brave faces at the recently concluded US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Tensions in the maritime and cyber realms, however, are threatening to send the relationship into a downward spiral.

The new head of GCHQ, the UK’s electronic listening station, has started his tenure with controversy by stating that ‘privacy is not an absolute right’, and tech firms must cooperate with authorities. His controversial remarks are however rooted in precedence.

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Tom Keatinge, Director, Centre for Financial Crime and Security Studies at RUSI, on the need for a global financial crime strategy to counter cybercriminals following a major ransomware attack on 12...

The rapid rise of Bitcoin has prompted extensive discussion about the nexus between virtual currencies and financial crime. This paper examines the financial crime risks involving virtual currencies...

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